ISL 5: Kerala Blasters part ways with head coach David James

Indian Super League franchise Kerala Blasters has sacked head coach David James following their 6-1 humbling at Mumbai last Sunday.

The two-time league finalists were on a record winless run of 11 games despite beginning with a convincing 2-0 victory against ATK away from home. Of their last 11 matches, the Blasters lost five and drew another six – four of which were consecutive draws and three of those came at home.

“The club would like to thank David for his efforts towards the team and wishes him all the very best in his career,” said club CEO Varun Tripuraneni.

Sacked coach David James too thanked the coach for their enormous support during his two stints at the club. “I’d like to thank the management, players and all staff for their support during my stint with the club. I wish them the very best for the future. The fans here have been amazing and I’d like to thank them too for a memorable experience.” He said.

James, who had guided the Blasters to the league finals in its inaugural season and one where he worked as a player-manager, returned to take over the club following the sacking of former Manchester United assistant coach Rene Meulensteen mid-way through to the 2017-18 season.

At the end of the ill-fated season, James, a former Liverpool and England goalkeeper, was then given a three-year contract but things have surely not gone according to the plan.

Thus, this will be for the third time in five seasons and for the second time running that Kerala has sacked a coach mid-way through their campaign. They have also had a new coach at the start of ever new ISL season.

Kerala are currently placed eighth in the point standings with just nine points after 12 games. The qualification for playoffs looks a distant dream for them.